Unified Club: creating friendships and promoting inclusivity at school

Luci Klaverkamp, Journalist • May 26, 2026

We asked Emily Stoebe some questions about Unified!

How and when did Unified first start at our school?

“ Mr. Sailor and I started the club four years ago to promote inclusion for students at Sartell High School. Our goal was to create opportunities for students with disabilities in activities together outside of the school day.” “Our first event was a trip to Mr. Twistys and since then, we have continued to meet one to two times a month. We gather at places in the community, attend sporting events, and also meet during the school day for Sabre Time. These events give students a chance to build friendships, have fun, and strengthen our inclusive school community.

Can you share one moment that really shows what Unified is all about?

“One of the most meaningful outcomes has been witnessing students greet and interact with their peers during passing time at school, or seek each other out when they see one another in the community outside of school. These moments show the genuine friendships that have formed.” “We often hear from students how much they value the relationships they have built with peers they may not have had the opportunity to get to know without the club or Unified PE. Seeing those connections grow has been incredibly rewarding and highlights the impact of creating inclusive opportunities for all students.”

What would you say to a student who is thinking about joining Unified?

“If you are looking for a place where everyone is included in a fun and relaxed environment, this club is a great fit. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get to know new peers, build meaningful friendships, and serve as a mentor for students with disabilities. Check us out on our social media pages!”

How has the program grown or changed over the years?

“The program has grown tremendously over the years. When we first started, we had about 15-20 members. Today, we have between 45 and 50 active members involved in the club.”

Why is the program important to you?

“I want the students I work with every day to feel accepted and to have the opportunity to build meaningful friendships, just like every high school student hopes to have. Through this club, I have seen my students grow in confidence and develop a stronger sense of community. On the other hand, several students who have served as mentors have been inspired to continue their education to pursue careers supporting individuals with disabilities- whether as special education teachers, physical therapists, or in other related fields.”

We also interviewed one of the Co-Presidents, Sophie Heathcote.

Why did you decide to join unified?

“I decided to join Unified because I wanted to make a difference at the school and I always loved seeing the events that the club put on and I thought it would be a great environment for me! I’m also thinking about doing special ed when I grow up so I figured I would get some experience while I am still in high school. “

How long have you been involved?

“I joined unified when I was a sophomore, so a little over 2 years ago.”

What has been your favorite memory from unified?

“My favorite memory from Unified Club is whenever I see the kids around the school or in public and they always have the biggest smiles on their faces and make you feel so special!”

What kinds of events or activities does the club do and what has been your favorite?

“We do lots of events in Unified like parties for holidays, going to the movie theatre, and the fan favorite AirMAxx! My favorite event that we do is the Unified Powderpuff Game before the real game at the carnival! It is always so fun and in Unified PE we practice for the game and make plays and it’s just overall a great time!”

About the Contributors

Luci Klaverkamp, Senior Journalist

Grade: Senior Favorite Artist: Chris Stapleton Favorite Color: Blue Hobbies: Yoga, hanging out with friends, skiing Favorite Food: Steak

Sophie Heathcote, Junior Journalist

Favorite Color: Pink Favorite Song: Rich Baby Daddy by Drake Favorite Show: Gossip Girl Favorite Season: Winter Favorite Hobbies: Hanging out with my friends, golfing, shopping and cleaning my room

The LeSabre

The LeSabre

The LeSabre

Unified Club: creating friendships and promoting inclusivity at school